Fans have a blast meeting Highlanders for first time

Eighteen years after the Highlanders were introduced to Super Rugby in 1996, avid supporters David and Lynette Weaver finally got to meet some of the players for the first time at the Brydone Hotel on Friday.

Mrs Weaver said it was a fantastic occasion.

“We had a blast. It was so good. I couldn’t believe how nice they were and speaking to Brad Thorn was so fun.”

Mrs Weaver said the couple had never been to Forsyth Barr Stadium since the side had moved there.

“The stadium is really good. We just love it and enjoy watching the games when they are played there.”

Mr Weaver, was delighted to be seated next to Brad Thorn at the luncheon, and said he watched the side every week.

“We haven’t missed a game since last season. We watch them all on our 50-inch TV by ourselves. We don’t let the neighbours come over,” he said.

“We have a son who lives in Aussie and is always ringing on the day of the games so we watch them to keep him in the loop.”

Mr Weaver will continue to follow the side in 2015 and loves what he is seeing from the group of guys they have.

“The win against the Hurricanes was awesome, especially when it was at their home ground.”